Curling for a Cure

The 6^th annual Curling for a Cure Funspiel was held in Minnedosa on February 14^th to 16^th. Curling for a Cure started in 2018 by Nick Melynk. Nick was a strong supporter of raising funds towards cancer research and programs. Sadly, Nick passed away three days after the first year’s event. The family has continued the annual event in memory of Nick. Curling for a Cure 2025 consisted of 24 curling teams coming together to support two amazing causes: The Candlelighters Childhood Cancer program and Neepawa Cancer Care Unit. This event raised $40,060.00 which is being split between the two organizations.

This is the first year for the event where funds are being dedicated to the Neepawa Cancer Care Unit and the organizers have set out that for the next nine years, where half of the proceeds will continue to benefit the Neepawa Community Cancer Program. Over the past six years, close to $135 thousand has been raised for cancer care in the region.

The Dream Ride, skipped by Grant Babcock with team members Gary Forgue, third, second Michelle Babcock and lead Marsha Forgue captured this year’s event. Next year’s event has already sold out and organizers are reviewing ways to expand it to more teams in 2026.

March is Nutrition Month

Nourish to Flourish, Nutrition and food is an important part of our lives and wellbeing. This March Dietitians of Canada highlights the powerful role nutrition plays in helping individuals and communities thrive.

Nutrition is important for good health across the lifespan: Eating a variety of foods provides the necessary vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, amino acids, and antioxidants needed by our bodies for growth and repair, physical health and performance, and disease prevention and management. Nutrition is important for supporting health across the lifespan, including pregnancy, infant, child and maternal health. It helps prevent malnutrition and is needed for a strong immune system, and lowers the risk of chronic health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Nourish to Flourish slogan with fish and salad meal

Nutrition could be the missing piece of the puzzles for your mental health: Mental symptoms such as brain fog or lack of focus may be linked to medical conditions that need nutritional management, such as long COVID or ADHA. A balanced diet can also help improve mental function throughout the life cycle, such as helping kids perform better at school or reducing effects of perimenopause. Some nutritional strategies have even been found to improve mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Although dietary strategies are often overlooked, they can lead to big improvements in mental wellbeing.

Food connects families, communities and cultures: How we eat reflects who we are. From family traditions to cultural and religious practices, food is more than just nutrients – it connects us to our families and communities and helps shape our identities. Work schedules, cooking skills, lifestyle, and family dynamics influence food choice, not to mention access to food and budget constraints. Knowing about and doing something about these influences is important for designing strategies that empower individuals to develop healthy, fulfilling ways of eating that are aligned with people’s values and circumstances.

Taking control of our emotional connections with food can support healthier eating. Emotional eating is part of everyday life. Eating can bring happiness, ease tension and create distraction. People also have positive or negative memories linked with specific food choices that influence their preferences. Sometimes when we start to rely only on food for comfort this can lead to eating problems. It is important to learn many ways to cope with emotions. Remember “to be an emotional eater is to be human” (Pixie Turner).

Are you struggling to manage a busy lifestyle and eat right? Menu planning may be the answer. You’ll find it easier to eat healthy, save money and get tasty meals to the table faster. Try these steps to help you to plan better.

To connect with an outpatient or facility Dietitian in PMH you can phone toll free 1-877-509-7852. If you want to connect with one of our community dietitians you can email [email protected]

Thrive Conference open to all health care workers

woman speaking to audience at conference

The Thrive Conference, brought to you by the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation, is a revitalizing half-day event dedicated to supporting and inspiring our regional public and private healthcare workers. Join us for an enriching afternoon featuring dynamic keynote speakers who will share insights on overcoming the obstacles faced in healthcare, rediscovering your professional passion, and fostering a positive and resilient work culture within your team. Our resource booths will offer valuable tools and information, while ample networking opportunities will allow you to connect with peers and build a supportive community.

In addition to benefiting from expert advice and networking, your participation helps a greater cause. All proceeds from Thrive will support our current capital campaign for the new critical care building. Funds raised will be directed towards essential equipment and infrastructure needs, ensuring that our healthcare facilities continue to provide top-notch care to those in need.

We are thrilled to welcome the following 3 nationally-recognized keynote speakers:

Amy Oliver, speaking on “Leading the Shift: Global Insights for Elevating Healthcare Delivery”
Deri Latimer, speaking on “The Resilient Mindset for Healthcare Professionals”
Jane Helbrecht, speaking on “Finding Play, Purpose, & Potential”

Tickets are on early bird pricing for $50, and our Brandon University and Assiniboine College receive 25% off (contact your institution to receive the discount code). Learn more on Thrive, the speakers, or purchase tickets at www.brhcfoundation.ca/thriveconference

Swan River Meals on Wheels short of volunteers

Swan River’s Meals on Wheels is putting out another urgent call for volunteers. A shortage of program volunteers to deliver meals to eligible clients has led to several gaps in scheduling over the next few months.

Volunteers delivering Meals on Wheels in Swan River

“Starting this month (February), we currently have twelve weeks with no volunteer drivers scheduled in the 2025 year,” stated Shantelle Rosteski, Nutrition Services Manager for Swan River. “We currently have 17 clients that are really dependent on receiving meals”

Program volunteers deliver meals to eligible clients who are generally unable to prepare food for themselves due to age, illness or disability, either on a temporary or permanent basis. Unfortunately, the program is struggling to maintain an adequate volunteer base. In Swan River, the meals are delivered three times a week- Monday, Wednesday and Friday (meals are picked up at 11:15 for lunch).

“We could sure use more volunteers especially for a week or two at a time, as some of these blocks of time throughout the year are still open and very much needed for scheduling purposes right now,” Rosteski said.

“Besides individuals, we urge organizations and groups to also consider participating for blocks of time. But, we also could use casual back up drivers if we have any cancellations, so every bit of volunteer time will really help!”

Rosteski passed along a sincere thank you to all the past and present volunteers, as well as Services to Seniors, who have been involved with the program.

Meals on Wheels is a program that offers a full, warm nutritious meal delivered to a client, for a small fee, at their home. Prairie Mountain Health, Nutrition Services at Swan Valley Health Centre, partners with Services to Seniors in Swan River to coordinate the program. Nutrition services prepares the meals, and works together with Services to Seniors with the volunteer delivery schedule.

Further questions and answers:

Who can you contact to sign up volunteer to deliver meals? In Swan River, you can contact the Services to Seniors Program at (204) 734-5707.

What is required of volunteers to do the job? There are some application sheets to fill out for those volunteering for the program. If volunteers have any specific questions they can contact Services to Seniors at the number above.

17^th Annual Camp Bridges Weekend Set for Circle Square Ranch, Austin MB

Prairie Mountain Health is organizing the 17th annual Camp Bridges, a weekend camp for bereaved children and teens. Camp Bridges will be held at Circle Square Ranch, Austin MB on May 23, 24 and 25, 2025. The goal of Camp Bridges is to support children and teens with their grief and bereavement. This is achieved through activities designed to help share grief and honour memories in a caring community environment.

Camp Bridges provides a safe, supportive and fun environment where grieving children and teens learn that they are not alone in their grief and are free to share their thoughts and feelings with peers who are going through a similar experience. The camp is intended to complement existing bereavement services for children and teens by providing a weekend of “caring, sharing and memories”.

Camp Bridges accepts up to 40 applicants each year. Children and youth between the ages of 7-15 years of age, who reside in Manitoba, are welcome to apply. The application deadline is April 23, 2025.

Volunteers are needed for Camp Bridges 2024. Volunteering is a rewarding experience that makes a difference in the lives of children and youth. . The application deadline for volunteers is March 17^th, 2025.

Donations are being accepted to cover the cost of camp rental, meals and activities, so that campers may attend at no cost. If you wish to donate to Camp Bridges please contact Melissa Peters.

Camper and volunteer applications are available on our website. For more information please contact committee members as listed below. Thank you.

Email: [email protected]

Melissa Peters, RN BN
Regional Palliative Care Coordinator
Phone: 204-578-2340

Charla Murray, RN
Palliative Clinical Resource Nurse
Phone: 204-764-4237

Have you ‘Bean’ Checked?

March is kidney awareness month and PMH encourages everyone to learn more about protecting their ‘beans.’ PMH wants to take additional steps to encourage community members to protect their kidneys by understanding the importance of early detection and screening.

The Importance of Regular Kidney Testing in Manitoba: Catching Kidney Disease Early

Have you 'Bean' checked? Advertisement to have your kidneys checked.

Chronic kidney disease is a progressive condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function over time. In its early stages, kidney disease often has no symptoms, which makes it difficult for individuals to detect the condition without proper testing. According to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, approximately 1 in 10 Canadians are affected by kidney disease, and Manitoba is no exception.

How Common is Kidney Disease?

Manitoba has the highest rates of kidney disease in Canada. About 1,793 people out of every million in the province develop kidney failure, which is higher than the national average. The most common cause of kidney disease in Manitoba is diabetes, but high blood pressure, family history, and certain ethnic backgrounds also increase the risk.

Why is Kidney Disease Hard to Notice?

Kidney disease doesn’t usually cause problems or symptoms until it is already quite serious. This means that people may have kidney disease for years without realizing it. That’s why it’s so important to have regular blood and urine tests. These tests can help doctors spot problems early, even before symptoms appear. Catching kidney disease early can make a big difference.

Who Should Get Tested?

Doctors recommend that people who are at higher risk for kidney disease should get tested annually. This includes people with diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, or certain ethnic backgrounds. Routine tests, like blood work and urine tests, can help doctors check for kidney problems.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices for Kidney Health

Maintaining kidney health is closely linked to overall lifestyle choices. Here are some key things to do to help keep kidneys healthy:

Stay Active: Engaging in regular physical activity helps control blood pressure and blood sugar levels, both of which are vital for kidney health.

Maintain a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while low in sodium and processed foods, supports kidney function. Limiting salt intake can help reduce blood pressure, a key factor in kidney health.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking adequate water aids in flushing out toxins and supports kidney function. However, individuals with existing kidney conditions should consult healthcare providers regarding appropriate fluid intake.

Avoid Smoking: Smoking can damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the kidneys and impairing their function. For more information or to speak to a Registered Nurse about quitting smoking or vaping contact 1-877-509-7852 (toll-free) or visit Chronic Disease Education Program – Prairie Mountain Health

Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol can lead to high blood pressure and liver disease, both of which can harm the kidneys.

Manage Chronic Conditions: Effectively managing conditions like diabetes and hypertension is essential. Regular check-ups and adherence to prescribed treatments can prevent kidney damage.

Take a self-screen today to see if you are at risk for kidney disease. It’s never too late to ask yourself Have You ‘Bean’ Checked?

Kidney Foundation – Are You at Risk?

Grandview hosts medical residents for evening of learning

Eight family medicine residents who are currently with the Parkland Unit in Dauphin participated in a recent training and fun night in Grandview on February 4th. The group trekked from their base in Dauphin to Grandview and networked with Dr. Elliott, other health-care professionals and community representatives. The evening promoted the benefits of practicing in Grandview and showcased infrastructure and available lifestyle opportunities.

Medical Residents visiting Grandview stand on the curling ice.

Following a warm welcome and hospital tour, the group had dinner and storytelling from a local family who has used local life-saving services. This touching and informative session stressed the importance of local and provincial resources and the teamwork required for success.

Volunteers taught the group about the sport of curling and how the town’s recreation is a local hub of connections and activities. Many who participated have never curled before and found the activity to be especially fun.

“On behalf of the residents, we wish to thank the community of Grandview for organizing this evening. It is invaluable for our education and gives us a better understanding of working in the area. Grandview is a beautiful town and we loved the opportunity to try curling and see the cute local snow sculptures!” Dr. Vlad Omelchenko noted.

The Parkland Family Medicine Residency Unit of the University of Manitoba began in 1991 and has graduated over 200 residents. Some 75 per cent of the program graduates have stayed in rural communities within Manitoba.

Colon Cancer Awareness Month | March

Did you know that colon cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Manitoba? However, with regular cancer screening, colon cancer can be prevented. Also, if colon cancer is detected early, it can be cured 9 out of 10 times! March is colon cancer awareness month, and it is a great time to learn more about colon cancer screening and what you can do to reduce your risk of colon cancer.

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal or bowel cancer, starts from small growths (polyps) in the colon or rectum. Polyps can grow for several years without signs or symptoms. Most of the time, polyps do not turn into cancer, but sometimes they can if they are not removed. Fortunately, there is an easy and convenient way for people to complete colon cancer screening at home using the fecal immunochemical test (FIT). FIT is a safe test that looks for hidden blood in poop, which may be a sign of polyps or colon cancer. If you are between the age of 50-74, you can request an at home colon cancer screening kit at cancercare.mb.ca

Cancer screening is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk of colon cancer, but here are a few other things to do!

Live smoke free
Move more
Eat healthy
Avoid alcohol
Maintain a healthy weight

Talk to your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following signs and symptoms that may suggest colon cancer: blood in stool, abdominal discomfort that lasts more than a few weeks, or change in bowel habits that lasts more than a few weeks.

For more information on colon cancer screening and prevention, visit CancerCare Manitoba’s ColonCheck website at cancercare.mb.ca.

February 2025 | Donations for PMH

Dauphin Regional Health Centre receives donation from Dauphin Hospital Foundation

The Dauphin Hospital Foundation recently contributed $21,000 for the purchase of two hysteroscopes for the Dauphin Regional Health Centre. A hysteroscope is a thin, surgical telescope that is able to display images of the inside of a uterus. It is an important tool used to further advance women’s health in rural Manitoba. Pictured (standing) are LPN Amanda Hryhoruk and Dr. Katherine Pernarowski, who is holding the Omni Hysteroscope ready to use. The second picture contains the various instruments that can be used with the scope. Prairie Mountain Health and the Dauphin Regional Health Centre thank the Dauphin Hospital Foundation for their generous contribution.

LPN Amanda Hryhoruk and Dr. Katherine Pernarowski, who is holding the Omni Hysteroscope ready to use.

Various instruments to use with hysteroscopes

Swan River hosts medical students as part of rural workshop

*Medical students spend time within Swan River Community Health and made a visit to the Swan River HERO Club as part of a focus on mental health services.*

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) partnered with the Swan Valley Medical Professional Recruitment and Retention Committee (SVMPRRC) to host a medical student rural interest group (RIG) workshop in Swan River February 7-9. The weekend event featured 19 first and second-year medical students from the University of Manitoba’s Max Rady College of Medicine who explored the benefits of career and lifestyle opportunities in the Swan River Valley. The workshop followed another very successful RIG event held in late January within the communities of Brandon and Killarney, where PMH hosted a record-breaking 75 students between the two rural centres.

PMH Co-organizers Tamara Kemp-Boulet and Darlene Gray were very pleased with how the additional Swan River workshop unfolded.

*Medical students had the opportunity to do some ‘hands on learning’ with the assistance of health care professionals including EMS (ambulance) staff.*

“The weekend went very well! We had a total of 19 medical students and the focus of the Swan River RIG was on Mental Health and Addictions. We were able to tour locations such as Canadian Mental Health Association and the HERO Club to see how partners are coming together to collaborate and provide services for the community. The Swan River physicians, Council, and Swan Valley Medical Professional Recruitment and Retention Committee provided an awesome experience for the students Saturday afternoon with snowshoeing, archery, snowmobile rides, fish fry and a Swan Valley Stampeders hockey game.”

Student RIG Co-Presidents Regina Klassen and Caitlin Culleton say participants really enjoyed their time in the Swan River Valley.

“The Rural Interest Group and the University of Manitoba Medical Classes of 2027 and 2028 were honoured to join the Swan River community for a weekend of clinical skills and festivities. We remain grateful to PMH, the community of Swan River and the SVMPRCC for providing us with this opportunity, as this was the northern-most trip for us this year. It gave students invaluable insight into what it means to live and work rurally.”

PMH Chief Medical Officer Dr. Adrian Fung thanked all involved with the successful initiative.

“We sincerely thank the organizational and financial support received from the SVMPRCC that allowed us to extend the workshop event to Swan River this year. We very much appreciate the support of the U of M, regional physicians, our staff and community volunteers who helped make the RIG weekend possible and a success.”

Nineteen first and second-year medical students from the University of Manitoba’s Max Rady College of Medicine explored the benefits of career and lifestyle opportunities in the Swan River Valley Feb. 7-9.

Author: Heather Janssens